Sculptures occupy former toilet

Two sculptures made of black velvet will be installed at the Edwardian Cloakroom in Bristol for Claudio Ahlers’ exhibition Portraits Of Private Perception.

Mr Ahlers, together with photographers Tilly May, Virginie Noel and Ellie Gray, will take pictures of visitors interacting with the 2.2m (7ft) tall sculptures – with one in the former ladies’ toilet and one in the men’s.

“While being photographed with the sculptures participants will be free to pose, sit and engage with the each sculpture in whatever way they like,” added Mr Ahlers.

“The resulting photographs should reflect intimate emotions, playful interactions, personal perceptions and most importantly the depth of feelings towards the opposite sex and as well as feelings about one’s own gender.”

Each participant, who must be aged over 18, will receive a digital file of their selected photograph for personal use.

The Montpelier-based artist said he hopes the photographs will reveal insights into how men and women view themselves.

He said: “Whatever is uncovered by each photograph will hopefully go beyond ideas and cliches as embodied by, for example, swear words, derogatory language or sexualised comedy and will instead be explored in the spirit of joy, affection and celebration.”

Portraits Of Private Perception starts tomorrow and lasts for six days.